Theophylline

What does this medicine do?

Theophylline is a long-term control medicine that relaxes
the smooth muscles around the airways. This causes the
airways to open and makes it easier for air to flow in and
out of the lungs.

How is it taken?

Theophylline is taken by mouth as a syrup, tablet, or capsule.
Some preparations release theophylline rapidly. Others release
the medicine slowly over a long period of time. For this reason,
the tablets or capsules should not be chewed or crushed.

What is the usual dose?

The dose of theophylline is different for each person. Some
medicines and conditions may affect the way theophylline affects
your child. The right dose is based on your child's weight, the
type of medicine, how often your child needs to take it, how much
medicine is in your child's blood, and how well your child
responds to the medicine. If your child is taking this medicine,
he should have a blood test done occasionally to check how much
of the medicine is in his blood. High levels of this medicine in
the blood can lead to serious side effects.

The theophylline medicine prescribed is _________________.
Your prescribed dose is ______ mg taken every ______ hours.

What side effects can this medicine cause?

The most common side effects of theophylline are nausea,
vomiting, stomachache, and diarrhea. These can also be symptoms
of other childhood illnesses, so call your health care provider
as soon as possible if they occur. Other less common side
effects are headache, irritability, restlessness, trouble
sleeping, muscle twitching, seizures, and a fast, pounding
heartbeat. If your child develops any side effects, STOP THE MEDICINE and call your health care provider right away.

What special instructions should be followed?

An overdose of theophylline is dangerous. It is
important to take this medicine at the times prescribed.
If you are not sure if a dose was taken, do not give your child extra doses.

Theophylline medicines are different from one brand to
another. Do not change brands without first checking with
your health care provider.

Be sure to read any special instructions that come with the
medicine.

Your child's usual dose of theophylline may cause
dangerous side effects if your child has a viral
infection with a high fever (over 102°F, or 38.9°C). Call your health care provider if your child has a high fever.

Your child may have side effects if he is taking other
medicines such as cimetidine (Tagamet), ciprofloxacin (Cipro),
erythromycin (Pediazole, E.E.S.), or clarithromycin (Biaxin).
Call your health care provider if your child is taking any of these medicines.

This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.